This $199 Adapter Brings CarPlay Back to GM EVs

Key Takeaways

• The EV Play LT adapter costs $199 and adds wired and wireless CarPlay/Android Auto to GM EVs
• It works on 2024-2026 model year vehicles from Chevy, Cadillac, and GMC
• GM could potentially disable the adapter through a future software update

General Motors made an unpopular decision: no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on its electric vehicles. Instead, you get GM's proprietary infotainment system built on Google's Android Automotive platform. For many buyers, that's a dealbreaker.

A company called EV Play thinks it has the fix. Its $199 EV Play LT adapter plugs into supported GM EVs and restores both CarPlay and Android Auto, wired or wireless. The catch? GM might shut it down.

How the Adapter Works

The EV Play LT uses a clever approach. You install an app on the vehicle's Android Automotive system, then connect the adapter. It projects your phone's interface onto the infotainment screen with full touch support.

“The dongle takes advantage of an app you install on the EV's Android Automotive system, effectively 'tricking' the car into believing a standard phone projection is happening.”

— Jon Fingas, How-To Geek

The device is confirmed to work with 2024 through 2026 model year EVs. It might work on newer vehicles, but EV Play doesn't guarantee it.

Supported Vehicles

The adapter works with a specific list of GM electric vehicles across three brands:

• Cadillac Escalade IQ and IQL
• Cadillac Optiq
• Cadillac Vistiq
• Chevy Blazer EV
• Chevy Equinox EV
• Chevy Silverado EV
• GMC Hummer EV
• GMC Sierra EV

Demand has been strong. New orders are delayed until June 15th as of this writing.

The Risk: GM Could Block It

EV Play is upfront about the gamble. Its FAQ mentions an "eventual possibility" that GM will disable the adapter through a software update. The company says it would "not be easy" for GM to block the device and promises to attempt workarounds if that happens.

But the risk is real. If GM cuts off access after the 30-day return window closes, you're out $199 with a useless dongle.

EV Play argues it would be "ridiculous" for GM to block the device since it helps keep customers loyal to the brand. That reasoning ignores GM's clear motive: money. You're more likely to pay for GM's software and services if you can't use your phone's alternatives.

Why GM Removed CarPlay in the First Place

GM's decision frustrated many EV buyers. Most drivers prefer the familiarity of their phone's interface, the seamless app integration, and voice navigation that actually works well.

GM chose a different path. Its proprietary system runs on Google's Android Automotive platform. That gives GM control over the experience and creates opportunities to sell subscriptions for navigation and other services.

The EV Play adapter bypasses all of that. Users on Reddit forums like r/BlazerEV and r/EquinoxEV report relief at avoiding GM's monthly fees. Others remain skeptical, expecting GM to patch the workaround in a future over-the-air update.

Should You Buy It?

The answer depends on your risk tolerance. If CarPlay or Android Auto is essential to your daily driving experience, $199 might be worth the gamble. You'll get the interface you want, at least for now.

If you're buying a new GM EV and CarPlay support is non-negotiable, consider whether this adapter changes your calculus. It works today. It might not work in six months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the EV Play adapter work with all GM electric vehicles?

No. It's confirmed to work with 2024-2026 model year EVs from Chevy, Cadillac, and GMC. Specific supported models include the Equinox EV, Blazer EV, Silverado EV, Escalade IQ, Optiq, Vistiq, Hummer EV, and Sierra EV.

Can GM block the EV Play adapter from working?

Yes. EV Play acknowledges an "eventual possibility" that GM could disable the adapter through a software update. The company says it would attempt workarounds, but there's no guarantee.

Is the EV Play adapter wireless or wired?

Both. The $199 EV Play LT supports wired and wireless connections for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Why did GM remove CarPlay and Android Auto from its EVs?

GM wants customers to use its proprietary infotainment system built on Google's Android Automotive. This creates opportunities to sell subscriptions for navigation and other services.

What's the return policy for the EV Play adapter?

EV Play offers a 30-day return window. If GM blocks the adapter after that period, you won't be able to return it.

Source: How-To Geek